IFLA/FAIFE
Intellectual Freedom Statements
American Library Association
American Library Association
Library Bill of Rights
Adopted June 18, 1948. Amended February 2, 1961, and January 23,
1980, inclusion of "age" reaffirmed January 23, 1996, by the ALA Council.
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information
and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.
- Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and
enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be
excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their
creation.
- Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on
current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of
partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
- Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfilment of their responsibility to
provide information and enlightenment.
- Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting
abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
- A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin,
age, background, or views.
- Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve
should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or
affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.
